Mortician vs. Taxidermist

Attribute	Mortician	Taxidermist
Job Description	Prepares bodies for burial or cremation	Preserves and mounts animal skins for display
Educational Requirements	Requires a degree in mortuary science	No specific degree required, but training in taxidermy is common
Work Environment	Typically works in funeral homes or morgues	May work in museums, wildlife centers, or as independent contractors
Tools Used	Embalming tools, cosmetics, caskets	Scalpels, tanning solutions, forms
Clientele	Families of deceased individuals	Hunters, museums, wildlife enthusiasts

Education and Training

Both morticians and taxidermists require specialized education and training in their respective fields. Morticians, also known as funeral directors or undertakers, typically need a degree in mortuary science from an accredited program. They must also complete an apprenticeship and pass a state licensing exam. Taxidermists, on the other hand, may learn through on-the-job training, workshops, or formal education programs. While there are no formal education requirements for taxidermists in some states, many choose to pursue certification through organizations like the National Taxidermists Association.

Job Duties

Morticians are responsible for preparing bodies for burial or cremation, coordinating funeral services, and providing support to grieving families. They may also handle paperwork related to death certificates and burial permits. Taxidermists, on the other hand, specialize in preserving and mounting animal skins to create lifelike displays. They must have a keen eye for detail and artistic skill to recreate the natural appearance of the animal. Taxidermists may also work with museums, hunters, and wildlife enthusiasts to create custom mounts.

Work Environment

Morticians typically work in funeral homes, which are often quiet and somber environments. They may interact with grieving families on a daily basis and must be compassionate and empathetic. Taxidermists, on the other hand, may work in a variety of settings, including taxidermy studios, museums, or even their own homes. They may also spend time in the field collecting specimens or working with hunters to preserve trophies. Taxidermists must have a strong stomach and be comfortable working with dead animals.

Salary and Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for morticians was $58,390 in 2020. Job opportunities for morticians are expected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, which is about average compared to other occupations. Taxidermists, on the other hand, earned a median annual wage of $39,280 in 2020. The job outlook for taxidermists is projected to decline by 3% from 2019 to 2029, due in part to increased regulations on hunting and wildlife conservation.

Skills and Qualities

Both morticians and taxidermists require a unique set of skills and qualities to be successful in their professions. Morticians must have strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle stressful situations with grace and professionalism. They must also be knowledgeable about funeral customs and regulations. Taxidermists, on the other hand, need artistic talent, patience, and a steady hand to create realistic mounts. They must also have a deep understanding of animal anatomy and behavior to accurately recreate the appearance of the animal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while morticians and taxidermists may seem like vastly different professions, they share some similarities in terms of education and training requirements. Both professions require a high level of skill and attention to detail, as well as the ability to work with deceased individuals or animals. However, the job duties, work environments, and salary prospects for morticians and taxidermists differ significantly. Ultimately, individuals interested in pursuing a career in either field should carefully consider their interests, skills, and career goals before making a decision.